Like Family is the kind of novel that sneaks up on you—quiet, intimate, and layered with the kind of emotional truths that feel both tender and unflinching. It explores the complicated, beautiful mess of adult friendships, parenting, marriage, and the quiet sacrifices we make for the people we love most.

Set in a picturesque upstate New York town full of farmers’ markets and hidden swimming holes, the setting feels cozy—but the real heart of the book lies in the relationships. Ruth and Wyn’s small farm becomes the emotional center of their friend group, and when tragedy strikes, every character is forced to reckon with old tensions, buried desires, and truths they’ve been too afraid to say out loud.

The writing is thoughtful and warm, with moments that made me tear up not because they were dramatic, but because they were true. It captures the ache of wanting connection, the vulnerability of being known, and the bittersweet joy of growing older alongside the people you’ve chosen.

If you love books about found family, imperfect but deeply human characters, and stories that sit with you long after you close the cover—this is one to treasure.

Like Family begins slowly, but once it finds its rhythm, it drew me in fully. The story tackles hard, emotionally charged topics—death, betrayal, and the fragile nature of relationships—with unflinching honesty. I found myself growing more and more emotionally invested as the characters’ complexities unraveled. What I appreciated most was how realistically the struggles were portrayed. Nothing was neatly resolved; the characters had to work through their pain and misunderstandings in a way that felt true to life.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House for the arc!

I was brought in by the cute cover, and stayed for the family drama. I am not usually a family lit fic person, but this was pretty good. I liked the modern feel of all of the families and always am entertained by other people's secrets.

“Like Family” by Erin O. White offers a poignant and realistic look into the lives of interconnected families and friends. Set in upstate New York, the story explores how these families—both queer and straight, affluent and middle class—confront their challenges and choices. It serves as a coming-of-age tale in which adults learn about their own identities and the evolution of their relationships, recognizing that a friend or partner cannot fulfill all their needs. White skillfully captures both the joys and difficulties of life, our connections, and our sense of self.

I thoroughly enjoyed this exploration of the complexities of life within this close-knit community. I also appreciated the diverse cast of characters presented throughout the narrative. Thank you to Random House | Dial Press and NetGalley for the ARC.

I tore through this enjoyable novel in a single sitting - I loved the Catskills/Hudson Valley setting and the alternating perspectives. Caroline’s was my favorite, but I was equally propelled by Ruth’s and Tobi’s. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys family (both biological and chosen) stories or small town life.